This weekend at Walt Disney World promises to be a lively one for guests visiting EPCOT, as several operational updates, road closures, and special events align to create a memorable few days across the resort.
Runners and spectators alike will fill the park and surrounding roadways during the runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon, taking place alongside the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival and recent updates to the park’s beloved Spaceship Earth attraction.
On Saturday, October 25, EPCOT Center Drive will temporarily close from 4:15 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., which could affect early-morning travel to and from the park. The following day, Sunday, October 26, guests should expect a wider impact, as Floridian Way, World Drive South, and Buena Vista Drive will all close from 4:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., with EPCOT Center Drive remaining closed until approximately 9:00 a.m. These closures are in place to ensure a safe course for runners and efficient event operations.
EPCOT’s park hours will also see temporary adjustments. On Sunday, Resort guests will be welcomed beginning at 9:30 a.m., with general admission opening at 10:00 a.m. Later that night, the Wine & Dine Post-Race Party will begin at 10:00 p.m., with ticketed entry starting at 5:00 p.m., bringing an evening filled with celebration and entertainment.
As the races unfold, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival continues to delight guests with its global marketplaces, culinary showcases, and the Eat to the Beat concert series. With both the marathon and festival taking place at once, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead—making dining reservations and travel adjustments to fully enjoy their day.
Meanwhile, EPCOT’s icon, Spaceship Earth, soft reopened following a short maintenance period earlier this month. While the long-discussed refurbishment has not yet begun, the attraction’s official reopening on October 25 offers guests another chance to enjoy one of the park’s signature experiences during this action-packed weekend.
With adjusted park hours, special events, and road closures all coinciding, Disney encourages guests to allow for extra travel time and consider transportation alternatives such as the monorail, Disney Skyliner, or resort buses. For those looking to maximize their day, visiting another park early before heading to EPCOT later might be a great way to balance the schedule.
From the thrill of the race to the flavors of the festival and the timeless journey through Spaceship Earth, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the magic at EPCOT this weekend.
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